A Design and functionality of geared potentiometers

A geared potentiometer comprises two main components. One is a measuring gear with precision gear wheels. The other is an electric resistor element with a variable resistance value that is adjusted by turning. The gear unit and potentiometer are assembled at the works with minimum backlash. The integrated slip clutch used in multi-coil potentiometers serves to prevent overrunning of the mechanical stops. A geared potentiometer therefore emits an ohmic output signal that is proportional to the number of turns.

Applications of geared potentiometers

Multi-coil hybrid potentiometers are particularly suitable for applications with a long service life and low signal noise, for example as a position sensor in position control loops of dancer potentiometers for paper processing, textile machines, slewing systems and lifting gear of crane and excavator systems or actuators in power plants and chemical plants. The geared potentiometers equipped with wire or plastic resistor elements supply current or voltage signals of 4 - 20mA as well as 0 - 10V with optional, integrated analogue R/I or R/U transducers. All transducers feature trimmers with which the output signal of the respective angle deflection of the transmitter can be adjusted. Oil-filled potentiometers of protection category IP65 or IP68 are available for measuring points in extremely soiled or wet environments.

The right measuring instrument for each application

Our incremental rotary encoders are more suitable for endless rotational applications, for example rotation measurement or non-contacting measuring assignments as well as applications involving shocks or vibration. Digitally communicating position sensors and rotation angle sensors are available in the Absolute rotary encoders sector. Measurement indicators in the Electronic displays section round off the product range. The RotoLine catalogue provides the best summary of the systems and is available for download from the RotoLine: rotary encoders.